Port-Wine Stains

Definition

A port-wine stain is a mark that is usually present at birth. It is made of enlarged blood vessels. This makes it appear as a reddish-purple patch of skin.

Causes

Port-wine stains are caused by a problem with the small blood vessels in the skin. Blood vessels can normally open and close to meet the needs of the skin. In port-wine stains, the blood vessels stay open. Blood fills the vessels causing the purple color and raised skin. This may be due to problems with the nerves controlling the blood vessels.

Risk Factors

There are no known risk factors for port-wine stains.

Conditions associated with port-wine stains include:

Sturge-Weber syndrome

Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome

Symptoms

The marks vary in size and are usually located on the head or neck, but may be in other locations

Appearance may change over time:

In children—they are flat, red, or light purple

In adults—they are raised and purplish in color, darkening and thickening over time

They may be prone to bleeding when scratched.

A port-wine stain near the eyes may be due to Sturge-Weber syndrome, and may cause additional symptoms

Diagnosis

A port-wine stain can typically be diagnosed based on its appearance. In some rare cases, a
skin biopsy
may be done.
Other tests, such as eye examination or imaging, may be done
if Sturge-Weber syndrome is suspected.

Prevention

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.